Add this item to my Toolkit!

Tips for Checking in with Your Theory of Change

~ Probe and get to the bottom. Don't be content with a
simple "yes, it happened" or "no, it did not." Figure
out why breakdowns in the theory of change occur and
develop new strategies to overcome any challenges.

~ Even the best theory of change will break down from
time to time. They are theories, after all. They are
meant to serve as an early warning system to help
correct mistakes before an advocacy campaign wanders
too far off course.

~ External or unplanned events are an opportunity to
test your ability to quickly react, adapt and change
course if needed. This is a capacity you can build,
and you might want to consider including it in your
grant proposal. Your grantmaker could be open to it.

[close window]